Tip: “Worst Case” Combinations of Laser Parameters – Watch Out!
Very often, a laser spec gives a range of values for various parameters – “Power from X to Y, Beam Diameter from…to…,” and so on. Now we need to measure the laser beam and we need to choose the right sensor. Let’s say the laser spec says:
- Pulse energy: 1mJ to 100J
- Pulse rate: 1Hz to 1KHz
Author:
Customer Service Department, Ophir Optronics
We might be cautious and look for a sensor that can handle all of those numbers...but wait. 100 J pulses at 1 kHz – that means the average power is 100 kW! Is that really the average power of my beam?
Though Ophir has a sensor that can measure 100 kW, in this case it’s probably NOT what you really need.
When looking for a sensor to measure a beam whose specs are given as ranges of values (think of the specs in a typical laser system brochure), don’t just "copy-paste" those specs into the Sensor Finder. Consider the actual worst-case combinations of parameters that you’ll really need to measure, and enter those into the Sensor Finder.
This is discussed in more detail in the video below.